Bee Folk

Virginia hive grant program

The 2012 session of the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation establishing the Beehive Grant Fund in an effort to address the loss of honey bees in the Commonwealth. Beginning January 1, 2013, money from the Beehive Grant Fund will be available to assist Virginia beekeepers in establishing new beehives. Funding for the grant originates from appropriations in the State Budget and any gifts, grants, or donations from public or private sources. Grants will be awarded in the amount of $200 per new hive, not to exceed $2,400 per individual per year. The funds are available for the purchase of a new beehive or construction of a new beehive. Grants will be issued in the order that each completed eligible application is received. In the event that the amount of eligible grants requested in a fiscal year exceeds the funds available in the Beehive Grant Fund, such grants shall be paid in the next fiscal year in which funds are available.Illustration of beehive.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is in the process of developing general requirements for individuals to qualify for the grant program. The registration process is likewise being developed and will be available prior to the January 1, 2013 start date. Individuals applying for the Beehive Grant will be required to register with VDACS. Grant applications and registration information will be posted on the Apiary Inspection webpage as they become available. Anyone interested in making donations to the Beehive Grant Fund should contact the Office of Plant Industry Services.